Youth Football Running Back Tips:
- Attitude- Running backs must develop an “attitude” when they run the ball. Attitude meaning running hard and aggressive. What I always tell my running backs-just because you are running the ball doesn’t mean you cannot hit, deliver the blow to the defender. Run with confidence and an attitude that they cannot tackle you!
- Squaring the Shoulders- The ball carrier will have 11 players on the other side that will want to tackle and hit him. The running back needs to lower his shoulders and protect himself. Take the fight to the tacklers.
- Keep the Legs Pumping- Run through the contact! During my many years of watching youth football games I have noticed a common mistake in nearly every game- the running backs stop moving their feet after contact. We teach our running backs to lower their shoulders and keep their legs pumping. Run through the contact, do not stop- keep those legs pumping.
- Ball Security- Keep two hands on the ball when contact arrives. High and tight, cover all the points of the football.
It is no secret that the offensive line needs to block. If they do not block well, the running backs are in for a long day. But, running the football is all about attitude and desire. Running backs need to get down hill, protect themselves (lower shoulder), keep legs pumping and run with confidence.
Here is an example of how a running back needs to run the ball with attitude and a “they cannot tackle me mentality”
Check Out YFO All Star Kamren Curl Running the Football
